Each Lent since 1972, successive Bishops of Southwark have called on the parishes of the Diocese to raise funds for local community projects in Southwark and our Link Dioceses in Zimbabwe and Jerusalem, as well as inviting them to a time of prayer and contemplation.

Over the years, these appeals have raised nearly £1,000,000, which has been shared with more than 150 projects, both in our own Diocese and in other parts of the Anglican Communion.

This year, the theme of Lent Call is home, and we will be raising money to support projects helping those in need of shelter, security, and a place to call home.

In the UK, rough sleeping is on the rise and hidden homelessness, or sofa surfing, is also likely to increase along with the cost-of-living crisis. In Zimbabwe and Jerusalem, meanwhile, many people have been dispossessed by poverty, environmental disasters, and the pandemic.

The money you raise through the Lent Call will help those in your local communities who are struggling and dispossessed people like David, a 56-year-old street cleaner who found temporary accommodation with the help of Glass Door, or Adam, who two years ago was homeless but is now rehoused and thriving with the assistance of the Robes project.

As we spend time in prayer and contemplation this Lent, we hope that you will feel able to generously support the projects we have chosen this year in the Diocese of Southwark and in our Link Dioceses in Jerusalem and Zimbabwe.